(CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Heart of the Valley YMCA is coordinating day and sleep-away camps at Camp Cha-La-Kee on Lake Guntersville, complete with shuttle service from Madison.

Hogan Family YMCA offers shuttle service directly to the 61-acre campus of Camp Cha-La-Kee, Director of YMCA Camping Services Joey Barnard said. Five-night traditional and day camps meet throughout July. Starter camp meets two nights, June 14-16 or June 17-19.

Families who are interested can attend a free fun day on May 24 from 2 to 6 p.m. to check out the camp in person.

“Our camps offer all campers the opportunities to make new friends, create life-long memories and to learn skills that build self-esteem, independence and a love for the great outdoors,” Barnard said.

“Our summer staff are among the best, most caring young adults in Alabama, and our focus is safety, fun and friendships,” Barnard said. Local YMCA officials recruit staff members throughout the United States. The staff completes a one-week training program before summer camp opens.

“All staff are screened and interviewed and have passed a criminal background check before employment,” Barnard said. “Cabin counselors must be 18 years old or older and are certified in CPR and first aid.”

YMCA campers enjoy archery, hiking, riflery, climbing, swimming, canoeing, tubing and ‘The Blob’ water feature.

For 2015, cabins have been upgraded with new mattresses, lighting, bathroom improvements and paint. During July, the YMCA has scheduled four weeks each for day camp and sleep-away camp.

In addition, 15-year-olds can enroll in the Leaders in Training program. The Counselors in Training program is open to 16-year-olds. For camp activities, the “Black Hole Slide” and “Banana Boat” water tow-boat have been added.

Camp Cha-La-Kee Board of Managers includes chairman Irene Wisner, Lee Adcox, Foster Perry, Karen Petersen, Brandon Tate, Bob White, Mike Wisner and Kelley Wolfe.

Visit chalakee.org for program descriptions, videos, calendar of events and staff biographies. For more information, call 256-975-0029, email to joey.barnard@ymcahuntsville.org or visit ymcahuntsville.org.